It is claimed that Sanchez trained with the reserves on Thursday, separately from the first-team players preparing for Saturday's home game against Crystal Palace.

Manager Arsene Wenger confirmed on Thursday that a deal with Man United, which would also see Henrikh Mkhitaryan join the Gunners was "likely" to be completed by Saturday.

Arsenal didn't comment on the Times report, but Wenger also told a news conference on Thursday that Sanchez had looked focused in training earlier this week and that he would play against Palace if the deal fell through.

"I have no problem with Alexis Sanchez. His attitude has been outstanding with us. He was in training yesterday, fully committed and prepared 100 percent," Wenger said.

"One thing you cannot question about Alexis Sanchez is his professionalism and his commitment."